For anyone who wants to work on boats, a career as a boat rigger offers an alternative to going to sea. In shipbuilding, there are specialists, called shipfitters, who "build out" the hull of the ship, adding all the ship's operating and comfort systems. Boat riggers do the same thing for recreational, rather than commercial vessels. Experienced boat riggers, according to May 2011 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, earn an average of $42,770 per year, or $20.56 per hour-- and they get to work on boats.

Apply for a job at a boatyard, working as an apprentice. Remember that many skills of the boat rigger have parallels in home construction and repair. You might consider taking classes in plumbing, electrical work and heating, ventilation and air conditioning at local technical colleges or trade schools before applying to a boatyard.

Work at the boatyard while you learn the basics of boatbuilding, paying particular attention to the "fitting out" phase of construction -- the installation of the interior parts including plumbing, flooring, HVAC, safety equipment and control systems such as steering and electric winch equipment.

Move from the fitting out of the exterior of the vessel to rigging the interior of the boat to continue to develop your skill set. Learn the correct way to install all exterior fittings, including winches, deck hardware, such as cleats and bitts, doors and windows and insulation.

About the Author

Will Charpentier is a writer who specializes in boating and maritime subjects. A retired ship captain, Charpentier holds a doctorate in applied ocean science and engineering. He is also a certified marine technician and the author of a popular text on writing local history.